5 Tips for Back to School Shoe Shopping

At Goldsmith Podiatry, we know back to school may look quite different this year, but keeping up familiar rituals like shopping for new shoes will give your child a sense of reassurance. And, chances are, their feet have grown and it’s time for new shoes regardless of what the classroom situation looks like.

Here are five recommendations for getting the best fit for your child’s shoes:

1.       Don’t fall for fads. Your children may want what’s currently cool, but your goal is protecting the health of their growing feet. Compromise where you can on things like shoe color, but make sure that the pair you buy has a good arch and heel support, a firm heel counter, and sturdy tread.

2.       Address podiatric issues. If your child has a chronic foot problem such as weak ankles, overpronation, or heel pain, it’s a good idea to schedule a checkup with our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith and Dr. Rosanna Troia by calling our Manhattan office at (212) 877-1002 for an appointment. The foot doctor will want to examine your child’s feet and determine if any changes have occurred in their condition. There may be specific shoe features that will increase comfort for your child.

3.       Plan your shopping trip. It’s best to try on shoes late in the day because that’s when feet are at their largest. Also, remember to bring the type of socks your child will likely be wearing with the shoes you are purchasing.

4.       Make sure your children measure up. It’s a good idea to periodically get your children’s feet professionally measured. A shoe salesperson should measure both of your child’s feet standing up. Don’t be surprised if one foot measures larger than the other—it’s not uncommon. Buy shoes that are comfortable on the bigger foot.

5.       Don’t rush the try-on time. Have your child put on both shoes and walk around for a while in the store to ensure shoes fit properly. You’ll save your child’s feet and yourself a trip back to the store with shoes that aren’t comfortable.

Contact our Upper West Side office by calling: (212) 877-1002 if you have any questions or concerns.